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Using the inside bending spring, turn the copper supply to the elbow. Cut off any excess pipe but leave 2 inches of straight copper for the compression fitting. Slide a compression nut and ferrule over the end of the pipe and hand-tighten the nut onto the inlet. Using an adjustable wrench, tighten it another quarter turn.

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Tools List

Screwdrivers

Drill/driver fitted with 1 1/4-inch and 2-inch hole saws

1-inch spade bit

Pliers

Adjustable wrench

Tube Bending Springs

Close-quarter tubing cutter

Torpedo level

Wire Strippers

Shopping List

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1. DISHWASHER The majority of built-in dishwashers come in only two sizes: 24 inches wide and 18 inches wide, both sized to fit under a standard
25-inch-deep and 36-inch-high counter. (Be sure to get a built-in dishwasher, not a portable one, which uses temporary connections at a sink tap and outlet.) Look for the Energy Star label on any model you buy—the criteria for dishwashers became more stringent in January 2007.

2. 3/8-TO-½-INCH BRASS ELBOW to make the turn from the dishwasher's inlet to the copper supply line. This is a standard part for dishwashers and may be included in a dishwasher installation kit.

3. TEFLON TAPE

4. ½-INCH SOFT COPPER TUBING to bring water to the dishwasher. (The measurement refers to the pipe's outside diameter.) A 10-foot coil should be plenty.

5. TWO ½-INCH COMPRESSION FITTINGS The number also refers to outside diameter. Each includes a brass ferrule (or compression sleeve) and a compression nut.

6. ELECTRICAL WIRE NUTS to connect wire ends. Get ones that will fit two 12-gauge wires—either yellow or red.

7. CABLE CLAMPto secure the electrical cable to the junction box on the dishwasher.